National puts its Geode into Microsoft Mira design

National Semiconductor is developing a reference design for "Mira" - the codename for a set of Microsoft Windows technologies that will enable a new generation of display devices.

National Semiconductor is developing a reference design for "Mira" - the codename for a set of Microsoft Windows technologies that will enable a new generation of display devices.

These new Mira-enabled smart displays will extend the PC experience to anywhere in the home.

National's Geode family of processors will be one of the key components of these devices.

Using the power and flexibility of Microsoft Windows CE.NET, Mira will allow wireless devices from OEMs to deliver the PC experience throughout the home.

Mira will enable smart displays in a variety of instant-on, silent-running form factors ranging from a primary PC monitor that detaches to become a portable touch screen monitor, to a large TV that presents photos and music from a PC.

National reckons its Geode family of products is the ideal x86 processor platform on which OEMs can build their Mira devices.

"We're excited that Microsoft is taking advantage of the strengths and infrastructure of our Geode processor for this programme", said Michael Polacek, vice president of National Semiconductor's Information Appliance Division.

"The combination of Mira and the Geode processor will dramatically expand the functionality of the PC and information appliances, and help to drive the future of home Internet use".

"National Semiconductor recognises that time-to-market is of utmost importance to OEMs developing consumer devices", said Todd Warren, general manager of the Embedded and Appliance Platforms Group at Microsoft.

"By providing reference designs for Mira-enabled devices, National Semiconductor will enable OEMs to quickly develop these next-generation displays that will allow consumers to experience the power of Windows XP from anywhere in their home".

Back to top